Home Tour Packages Festival Tours Black Necked Crane Festival

Black Necked Crane Festival

11 Days | 10 Nights | Paro,Thimphu,Punakha

Tour Overview

This 11-day Bhutan journey is designed for travelers to experience Bhutan’s rich culture, scenic landscapes, and unique wildlife traditions. The tour is centered around the Black-Necked Crane Festival in the serene Phobjikha Valley, where these sacred migratory birds arrive every winter. Along the way, you will explore Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Gangtey, enjoy gentle hikes, visit historic dzongs and monasteries, and conclude with the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, offering a deeply authentic Bhutanese experience.

Tour Map & Highlights

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic Himalayan flight into Paro
  • Visit Paro Dzong and explore Paro Valley
  • Drive to Thimphu via Tamchog Lhakhang
  • Explore Thimphu’s cultural and spiritual landmarks
  • Scenic drive over Dochula Pass to Punakha
  • Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
  • Witness the Black-Necked Crane Festival in Gangtey
  • Explore Gangtey Valley Nature Trail
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Day to Day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by BLZ Team Members. After completing arrival formalities, transfer to your hotel. Later, visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), a magnificent fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro Valley.

Accommodation: Overnight in Paro

After breakfast, drive from Paro to Thimphu. En route, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a beautiful iron-chain bridge temple built by the great master Thangtong Gyalpo. Upon arrival in Thimphu, visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Memorial Chorten, and Takin Preserve Centre. Spend time exploring Thimphu town and local markets in the evening.

Accommodation: Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Thimphu Valley. Begin with a hike to Wangditse, a hill offering panoramic views of Thimphu and the surrounding valleys. Later, visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body. Explore additional sights or handicraft shops in town before returning to your hotel.

Accommodation: Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast, drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass, offering panoramic Himalayan views on a clear day. On the way visit Chimi Lhakhang, well known as the Fertility Temple. Arrive in Punakha and check in to your hotel. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil Punakha Valley.

Accommodation: Overnight in Punakha

After breakfast, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, passing through rice fields, riverside paths, and traditional villages. Enjoy spectacular views of the Punakha Valley from the top before descending. After the light hike visit Punakha Dzong which is surrounded by 2 rivers.

Accommodation: Overnight in Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Gangtey, one of Bhutan’s most important winter habitats for the endangered black-necked cranes. On arrival, check in to your hotel and relax amidst the serene valley surroundings.

Accommodation: Overnight in Gangtey

After breakfast, attend the Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Monastery, celebrating the arrival of these sacred birds. Witness traditional dances, cultural performances, and local rituals. Later, explore the Gangtey Valley Nature Trail, enjoying stunning views of wetlands, farmland, and alpine scenery.

Accommodation: Overnight in Gangtey

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Paro. En route, visit Samtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in the 17th century, offering a glimpse into Bhutanese architecture and history. Continue the drive to Paro, check in to your hotel, and relax for the evening.

Accommodation: Overnight in Paro

After breakfast, explore Paro Valley’s cultural highlights including Kyichu Lhakhang, Dungtse Lhakhang, and Ta Dzong (National Museum). The remainder of the day is at leisure for shopping or relaxation.

Accommodation: Overnight in Paro

Early in the morning, hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic site perched dramatically on a cliff. Explore the monastery and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valley before descending.

Accommodation: Overnight in Paro

Transfer to Paro International Airport. Our team will bid you a warm farewell as you depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of its festivals, culture, and scenic landscapes. Tashi Delek! Tashi Delek!

Tour Gallery

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • All accommodation in 3-star hotels
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Licensed English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle with experienced driver
  • All entrance fees to monuments and museums
  • Visa processing assistance
  • Airport transfers
  • Drinking water during tours
  • Sustainable Development Fee (USD 100/night)

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Camera/video fees at monuments
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and shopping
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities (hot stone bath, rafting)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Camera/video fees at monuments

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Have questions? Reach us on WhatsApp at +975-7775-5933 or email blzbhutan@gmail.com

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